Hélène Desmarais

Hélène Desmarais is one of the most influential figures in the Canadian business world, particularly in the technology and artificial intelligence sectors. She is notably the head of the Montreal Centre d’entreprises et d’innovation de Montréal (CEIM), which she founded in 1996. In 2018, she also established SCALE AI, Canada’s global innovation cluster specializing in artificial intelligence, where she serves as co-chair of the board of directors. She also founded IVADO Labs, which she leads as president and co-CEO. In addition, she is the president of Next AI and CLD AI, two AI-focused business incubators. As a testament to her unwavering commitment to the Montreal community, Ms. Desmarais actively contributes to several boards and committees, either as chair or member, including HEC Montréal, the Montreal Symphony Orchestra Foundation, the Conference of Montreal, and the Montreal Economic Institute. Her accomplishments have earned her numerous awards and honours. Notably, she has been named a Knight of the Legion of Honour, the highest distinction awarded by the French Republic. She is also a Member of the Order of Canada, an Officer of the National Order of Quebec, a Commander of the Order of Montreal (Grande Montréalaise), and the recipient of several honorary doctorates.